You never think that something like this will happen to a friend of yours. You don’t think when you see them get married, when they have babies…you don’t see it. You don’t see the pain in their eyes, until after the fact. You don’t see the hurt and turmoil.

Around the world, 1 in 3 women have reported being abused. Over 960,000 incidents of violence by a current or former spouse occur every year. 30% of Americans say they know a woman who has been physically abused by her husband or boyfriend in the past year. On average, more than 3 woman are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends everyday. And, slightly more than half the female victims of violence have children in the household, with over 3 million children witness violence of some sort annually. (facts from Get the Facts, End Abuse )

The statistics are staggering.

If you have a friend in need, here are some tips. The tips help, and they are true. Be there, but don’t live it for them. Listen, but don’t judge. Help them form an action plan, but don’t force anything on them. Do have information for them to help them get out of the situation or cope with it as best they can. Help them make the best choice for them. Be mindful of their emotions, and that of their children. Remember, they are living the life, you are just a visitor.

Thoughts and prayers go out to my friend. May we have more road trips, get stuck in more snow storms, drink many more vodka and lemonades together. Remember you can call on me anytime of day, no matter where I am, I will always be here for you. I love you. Thelma and Louise will ride again!!